Memory-induced Magnus effect: Looking at the unexpected curveball in miniature

Whether you are familiar with the term "Magnus effect" or not, you have certainly seen it in action. It is when a spinning ball--for instance in football, cricket or baseball--bends away from its expected trajectory, often to the surprise of the opposing team. The principle also has engineering uses, for example to propel certain types of ships or aircraft using a "Flettner rotor."